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If a paramedic gets a hazardous substance in their eye, what is the immediate action they should take?
Apply an eye drop
Immediately flush the eye with water
Call for medical assistance
Cover the eye with a cloth
The correct answer is: Immediately flush the eye with water
In the event that a paramedic gets a hazardous substance in their eye, the immediate action is to flush the eye with water. This is critical because promptly washing out the substance can help to minimize damage and irritation to the eye. The goal is to dilute and remove the hazardous material as quickly as possible. Using a gentle stream of water, ideally from a dedicated eye wash station or a clean source, helps to wash away the harmful substance. The flushing should ideally continue for at least 15 minutes or until medical assistance can be obtained. This procedure is recommended by health and safety guidelines to ensure eye safety in cases of chemical exposure. The other options are not appropriate immediate actions in this situation. For instance, applying eye drops may not effectively remove the hazardous material, and calling for medical assistance, while important, should follow direct flushing of the eye. Covering the eye with a cloth could trap the chemical and worsen the situation by preventing flushing or causing additional irritation. Thus, flushing the eye with water is the correct and most effective first response in this scenario.